In-Vehicle Audio Playout

ABSTRACT

An example embodiment may involve receiving an indication of media content selected by way of a first client device. The indication may specify that the media content has been flagged for audible playout at a later time (such as when the client device or its user is in an automobile). The example embodiment may further involve receiving a request to stream the audio file to a second client device. The second client device may be associated with the first client device. The example embodiment may further involve causing the audio file to be streamed to the second client device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/514,555, filed Jul. 17, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/514,555 is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/387,351, filed Dec. 21, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Streaming audio over a packet-switched network, such as the Internet, typically involves a client device receiving a portion of the audio, buffering that portion for playout, and playing out the buffered portion while receiving another portion of the audio. Streaming is typically triggered by a user, for instance, when the user selects particular audio content and instructs an application to begin streaming the selected content. Doing so, however, requires the user's attention, and does not account for environments in which the user desires to listen to the audio, but cannot easily perform the selection thereof.

SUMMARY

The embodiments herein disclose various mechanisms for streaming audio content to client devices that are in automobiles. In order to facilitate the audio streaming, a user may select one or more online sources using a “save to automobile” function of a client device. These sources may be, for instance, text-based articles, audio files, links to audio files, web pages containing links to audio files, live streaming feeds, and so on. The selected sources, and/or the content to which they refer, may be converted into an audio format (if they are not already in such a format) and compiled into a playlist by the client device or a server device. Regardless of where it is generated, the playlist may be stored on the client device, a server device, or both.

In these embodiments, a first client device may be a wireless communication device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Using this device, a user may select one or more sources for later playout in an automobile. The first client device, or a server device, may generate a playlist including references to these sources. The playlist may be stored on the first client device, the server device, or both.

In one variation, when the first client device detects that it is in an automobile, the first client device may, based on the playlist, automatically request and receive streaming audio from the selected audio sources. In another variation, a second client device is an automobile that includes an in-automobile audio system. The in-automobile audio system may detect that the automobile is activated, occupied, and/or in motion, download the playlist from the server device, and access the playlist to automatically request and receive streaming audio from the selected audio sources.

Both of these variations allow the user to avoid having to instruct a device to select specific audio content while the user is driving. As a result, the user is able to drive an automobile without this distraction, but still listen to the audio content desired.

Accordingly, a first example embodiment may involve receiving, by a server device, an indication of a text-based article selected by way of a first client device. The indication may specify that the text-based article has been flagged for audible playout at a later time. The first example embodiment may further involve, possibly based on the indication specifying that the text-based article has been flagged for audible playout at the later time, causing, by the server device, the text-based article to be converted into an audio file. The first example embodiment may further involve receiving, by the server device, a request to stream the audio file to a second client device. The second client device may be associated with the first client device. The first example embodiment may further involve causing, by the server device, the audio file to be streamed to the second client device.

A second example embodiment may involve displaying, by a client device, a text-based article on a user interface of the client device. The user interface may include a save-to-audio (or save-to-automobile) option. The second example embodiment may further involve determining, by the client device, that the save-to-audio option has been activated for the text-based article. The second example embodiment may further involve, possibly based on the save-to-audio option being activated for the text-based article, causing, by the client device, the text-based article to be converted into an audio file. The second example embodiment may further involve determining, by the client device, that the client device is in a hands-free listening mode (e.g., the client device may detect that it is in an automobile). The second example embodiment may further involve, possibly based on the client device being in the hands-free listening mode, playing out, by the client device, the audio file.

In a third example embodiment, an article of manufacture may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium, having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations in accordance with the first and/or second example embodiments.

In a fourth example embodiment, a computing device may include at least one processor, as well as memory and program instructions. The program instructions may be stored in the memory, and upon execution by the at least one processor, cause the computing device to perform operations in accordance with the first and/or second example embodiments.

In a fifth example embodiment, a system may include various means for carrying out each of the operations of the first and/or second example embodiments.

Although examples described herein attribute certain acts to certain devices, any device or devices could perform those acts. For instance, some of the acts attributed to a “client device” above could be performed by one or more different client devices and/or a server device.

These as well as other embodiments, aspects, advantages, and alternatives will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with reference where appropriate to the accompanying drawings. Further, it should be understood that this summary and other descriptions and figures provided herein are intended to illustrate embodiments by way of example only and, as such, that numerous variations are possible. For instance, structural elements and process steps can be rearranged, combined, distributed, eliminated, or otherwise changed, while remaining within the scope of the embodiments as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a high-level depiction of a client-server computing system, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic drawing of a computing device, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic drawing of a networked server cluster, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 4A depicts components of an in-automobile audio system, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 4B depicts components of an in-automobile audio system interacting with a wireless communication device, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 5A depicts a playlist, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a message flow diagram depicting distribution of a playlist, as well as distribution and playout of audio files referenced by the playlist, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a message flow diagram depicting streaming of selected audio files to a client device in an automobile, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a message flow diagram depicting streaming of selected audio files to an in-automobile audio system, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart, according to an example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example methods, devices, and systems are described herein. It should be understood that the words “example” and “exemplary” are used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or feature described herein as being an “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or features. Other embodiments can be utilized, and other changes can be made, without departing from the scope of the subject matter presented herein.

Thus, the example embodiments described herein are not meant to be limiting. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. For instance, steps, blocks, or acts assigned to a particular device (e.g., a server device) may be carried out by components of another device (e.g., a client device) in alternative embodiments.

Further, unless context suggests otherwise, the features illustrated in each of the figures may be used in combination with one another. Thus, the figures should be generally viewed as component aspects of one or more overall embodiments, with the understanding that not all illustrated features are necessary for each embodiment.

Additionally, any enumeration of elements, blocks, or steps in this specification or the claims is for purpose of clarity. Thus, such enumeration should not be interpreted to require or imply that these elements, blocks, or steps adhere to a particular arrangement or are carried out in a particular order.

1. Overview

As noted above, the embodiments herein provide for selection of online sources, the audio content of which is later streamed to client device. The client device may be in an automobile. The online sources may be audio sources or non-audio sources that are converted into audio representations.

To that end, the user may select text-based files. These selections may be provided to an automated text-to-speech (TTS) system that converts the text therein into audio. Alternatively, the selections may be provided to a recording studio for a verbal reading of the text into audio. The resulting audio files may be stored and eventually streamed to client devices.

In some of these scenarios, the automobile may be in motion and the client device may detect the motion, then automatically request and play out one or more streamed audio files. These embodiments require computer implementation and are non-analogous to pre-Internet audio distribution techniques.

Notably, unlike traditional broadcast audio, online (e.g., Internet-based) audio may be based on a playlist that can be personalized for an individual user and/or client device. For instance, based on user input, a server device may generate a playlist containing a sequence of references (e.g., uniform resource locators, or URLs) to one or more remote audio files. Such a playlist may be transmitted to the client device. The client device may traverse the playlist, retrieving and playing out the audio files. In doing so, the client device may either download one or more of the audio files (from the server device or a different device) prior to playing them out, or may receive the audio files as a stream.

Herein, a download of an audio file may refer to a client device obtaining the entire audio file from a server device before beginning to play out any part of the audio file. The streaming of an audio file, on the other hand, may involve the client device receiving one portion of the audio file while simultaneously playing out another, previously-received, portion of the audio file. While the embodiments herein are generally directed to streaming of audio files, they may be used for the download and subsequent playout of audio files as well.

As an example of streaming, the server device may transmit the playlist to the client device, and the client device may traverse the entries of the playlist. In doing so, the client device may retrieve data representing each referenced audio file, and play out the audio files in accordance with the sequence defined by the playlist. Thus, for each reference in the sequence defined by the playlist, (i) the client device may transmit, to the server device (or a different device), a request for the referenced audio file, (ii) the server device may receive the transmitted request, (iii) responsive to the server device receiving the transmitted request, the server device may transmit to the client, a stream of the requested audio file, (iv) the client device may begin receiving and buffering the stream of the audio file, and (v) while still receiving the stream of the audio file, the client device may play out the received portion of the audio file. In this way, a user may be provided with a substantially continuous playout of the audio files referenced by the playlist.

As a result of the personalization and streaming, the embodiments herein require computers and computer networks. Traditional broadcasting and newscasting systems were unable to support individual user selection of content, and operated using different technology. For instance, these traditional systems generally involve over-the-air analog broadcasting in strict real time. The embodiments herein involve on-demand transmission of a digital stream over a packet-switched network (such as the Internet) to client devices. The client devices can accommodate for jitter (delay variance) in the delivery of stream through the use of buffering.

Streaming of audio files is advantageous to users in times at which they operate their devices in a hands-free mode. For example, if a user spends one hour driving to and from work most days, the user may wish to listen to previously-selected audio files during this time.

Regardless of how they may be implemented, the embodiments herein may make use of one or more computing devices. These computing devices may include, for example, client devices under the control of users, and server devices that directly or indirectly interact with the client devices. Such devices are described in the following section.

2. Example Computing Devices, Computing Environments, and Playout Arrangements

FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication system 100 for carrying out one or more of the embodiments described herein. Communication system 100 may include computing devices. Herein, a “computing device” may refer to either a client device, a server device (e.g., a stand-alone server computer or networked cluster of server equipment), or some other type of computational platform.

Client device 102 may be any type of device including a personal computer, laptop computer, a wearable computing device, a wireless computing device, a head-mountable computing device, a mobile telephone, or tablet computing device, etc., that is configured to transmit data 106 to and/or receive data 108 from a server device 104 in accordance with the embodiments described herein. For example, in FIG. 1, client device 102 may communicate with server device 104 via one or more wireline or wireless interfaces. In some cases, client device 102 and server device 104 may communicate with one another via a local-area network. Alternatively, client device 102 and server device 104 may each reside within a different network, and may communicate via a wide-area network, such as the Internet.

Client device 102 may include a user interface, a communication interface, a main processor, and data storage (e.g., memory). The data storage may contain instructions executable by the main processor for carrying out one or more operations, such as operations relating to the data sent to, or received from, server device 104, and/or other operations disclosed herein. The user interface of client device 102 may include buttons, a touchscreen, a microphone, and/or any other elements for receiving inputs, as well as a speaker, one or more displays, and/or any other elements for communicating outputs.

Server device 104 may be any entity or computing device arranged to carry out the server operations described herein. Further, server device 104 may be configured to send data 108 to and/or receive data 106 from the client device 102.

Data 106 and data 108 may take various forms. For example, data 106 and 108 may represent packets transmitted by client device 102 or server device 104, respectively, as part of one or more communication sessions. Such a communication session may include packets transmitted on a signaling plane (e.g., session setup, management, and teardown messages), and/or packets transmitted on a media plane (e.g., text, graphics, audio, and/or video data). For instance, data 106 may include transmissions of requests for playlists and audio file streams, while data 108 may include, in response to these requests, transmissions of playlists and audio file streams, respectively.

Regardless of the exact architecture, the operations of client device 102, server device 104, as well as any other operation associated with the architecture of FIG. 1, can be carried out by one or more computing devices. These computing devices may be organized in a standalone fashion, in cloud-based (networked) computing environments, or in other arrangements.

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram exemplifying a computing device 200, illustrating some of the components that could be included in a computing device arranged to operate in accordance with the embodiments herein. Example computing device 200 could be a client device, a server device, or some other type of computational platform. For purpose of simplicity, this specification may equate computing device 200 to a server from time to time. Nonetheless, the description of computing device 200 could apply to any component used for the purposes described herein.

In this example, computing device 200 includes a processor 202, a data storage 204, a network interface 206, and an input/output function 208, all of which may be coupled by a system bus 210 or a similar mechanism. Processor 202 can include one or more CPUs, such as one or more general purpose processors and/or one or more dedicated processors (e.g., application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), network processors, etc.).

Data storage 204, in turn, may comprise volatile and/or non-volatile data storage and can be integrated in whole or in part with processor 202. Data storage 204 can hold program instructions, executable by processor 202, and data that may be manipulated by these instructions to carry out the various methods, processes, or operations described herein. Alternatively, these methods, processes, or operations can be defined by hardware, firmware, and/or any combination of hardware, firmware and software.

By way of example, the data in data storage 204 may contain program instructions, perhaps stored on a non-transitory, computer-readable medium, executable by processor 202 to carry out any of the methods, processes, or operations disclosed in this specification or the accompanying drawings. Data storage 204 may also contain one or more playlists and/or audio files possibly referred to by playlists.

Network interface 206 may take the form of a wireline connection, such as an Ethernet, Token Ring, or T-carrier connection. Network interface 206 may also take the form of a wireless connection, such as IEEE 802.11 (Wifi), BLUETOOTH®, or a wide-area wireless connection. However, other forms of physical layer connections and other types of standard or proprietary communication protocols may be used over network interface 206. Furthermore, network interface 206 may comprise multiple physical interfaces.

Input/output function 208 may facilitate user interaction with example computing device 200. Input/output function 208 may comprise multiple types of input devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, and so on. Similarly, input/output function 208 may comprise multiple types of output devices, such as a screen, monitor, printer, or one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Additionally or alternatively, example computing device 200 may support remote access from another device, via network interface 206 or via another interface (not shown), such as a universal serial bus (USB) or high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port.

In some embodiments, one or more computing devices may be deployed in a networked architecture. The exact physical location, connectivity, and configuration of the computing devices may be unknown and/or unimportant to client devices. Accordingly, the computing devices may be referred to as “cloud-based” devices that may be housed at various remote locations.

FIG. 3 depicts a cloud-based server cluster 304 in accordance with an example embodiment. In FIG. 3, functions of a server device, such as server device 104 (as exemplified by computing device 200) may be distributed between server devices 306, cluster data storage 308, and cluster routers 310, all of which may be connected by local cluster network 312. The number of server devices, cluster data storages, and cluster routers in server cluster 304 may depend on the computing task(s) and/or applications assigned to server cluster 304.

For example, server devices 306 can be configured to perform various computing tasks of computing device 200. Thus, computing tasks can be distributed among one or more of server devices 306. To the extent that these computing tasks can be performed in parallel, such a distribution of tasks may reduce the total time to complete these tasks and return a result. For purpose of simplicity, both server cluster 304 and individual server devices 306 may be referred to as “a server device.” This nomenclature should be understood to imply that one or more distinct server devices, data storage devices, and cluster routers may be involved in server device operations.

Cluster data storage 308 may be data storage arrays that include disk array controllers configured to manage read and write access to groups of disk drives (e.g., hard drives with rotating platters or solid state drives). The disk array controllers, alone or in conjunction with server devices 306, may also be configured to manage backup or redundant copies of the data stored in cluster data storage 308 to protect against disk drive failures or other types of failures that prevent one or more of server devices 306 from accessing units of cluster data storage 308. As an example, cluster data storage 308 may contain one or more playlists and/or audio files possibly referred to by playlists.

Cluster routers 310 may include networking equipment configured to provide internal and external communications for the server clusters. For example, cluster routers 310 may include one or more packet-switching and/or routing devices configured to provide (i) network communications between server devices 306 and cluster data storage 308 via cluster network 312, and/or (ii) network communications between the server cluster 304 and other devices via communication link 302 to network 300.

Additionally, the configuration of cluster routers 310 can be based at least in part on the data communication requirements of server devices 306 and cluster data storage 308, the latency and throughput of the local cluster networks 312, the latency, throughput, and cost of communication link 302, and/or other factors that may contribute to the cost, speed, fault-tolerance, resiliency, efficiency and/or other design goals of the system architecture.

As a possible example, cluster data storage 308 may include any form of database, such as a structured query language (SQL) database. Various types of data structures may store the information in such a database, including but not limited to tables, arrays, lists, trees, and tuples. Furthermore, any databases in cluster data storage 308 may be monolithic or distributed across multiple physical devices.

Server devices 306 may be configured to transmit data to and receive data from cluster data storage 308. This transmission and retrieval may take the form of SQL queries or other types of database queries, and the output of such queries, respectively. Additional text, images, video, and/or audio may be included as well. Furthermore, server devices 306 may organize the received data into web page representations. Such a representation may take the form of a markup language, such as the hypertext markup language (HTML), the extensible markup language (XML), or some other standardized or proprietary format. Moreover, server devices 306 may have the capability of executing various types of computerized scripting languages, such as but not limited to Perl, Python, PHP Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Active Server Pages (ASP), JavaScript, and so on. Computer program code written in these languages may facilitate the providing of web pages and media files to client devices, as well as client device interaction with the web pages and media files.

Some of the embodiments herein may involve playout of audio files (streamed or downloaded) by way of an in-automobile audio system. FIGS. 4A and 4B depict examples of such an arrangement.

FIG. 4A includes automobile 400 equipped with in-automobile audio system 402. The latter contains one or more instances of a speaker 402A, a user interface 402B, and a communication unit 402C. In-automobile audio system 402 may include additional components not depicted in FIG. 4A, such as processors, memory, decoders, and so on.

Speaker 402A may include any mechanism for converting digital signals into audio output. User interface 402B may include, for instance, a touchscreen through which in-automobile audio system 402 can be controlled. Communication unit 402C may include one or more wireless communication interfaces through which in-automobile audio system 402 can communicate with a packet-switched network, of which Internet 404 is an example.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, in-automobile audio system 402 may request and receive, by way of communication unit 402C, streams or downloads of audio files from Internet 404. In-automobile audio system 402 may play out these audio files through speaker 402A. User interface 402B may be used to set up, modify, or terminate such a configuration.

FIG. 4B also includes automobile 400 equipped with in-automobile audio system 402. But, in this depiction, communication unit 402C of in-automobile audio system 402 communicates with local communication unit 406A of wireless communication device 406. Remote communication unit 406C of wireless communication device 406, in turn, communicates with Internet 404. Wireless communication device 406 may be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or another type of network-enabled portable computer.

The link between communication unit 402C and local communication unit 406A may be either wired or wireless. For instance, this link may be a USB cable connecting communication unit 402C and local communication unit 406A or a BLUETOOTH® association between these units.

In some embodiments, in-automobile audio system 402 may be configured (perhaps by way of user interface 402B) to play out audio provided to it by wireless communication device 406. Wireless communication device 406 may be configured (perhaps by way of user interface 406B) to download or stream audio files by way of Internet 404. Thus, streaming audio may be transmitted by a server device (e.g., server cluster 304) accessible via Internet 404, received by wireless communication device 406, and relayed or retransmitted to in-automobile audio system 402.

In some cases, the audio files may stream between such a server device and wireless communication device 406, with wireless communication device 406 providing digital audio output to in-automobile audio system 402. In other cases, wireless communication device 406 may download one or more audio files from the server device, then stream these files to in-automobile audio system 402 for playout. Other arrangements may exist.

3. Example Playlist and Streaming Environment

Once audio files are selected, the client device may generate or be provided with a playlist of these audio files. With such a playlist, the client device may be able to request streams of the audio files and play out these streams.

FIG. 5A depicts an example playlist 500, which contains a sequence of references to audio files. Playlist 500 may take the form of a computer file, such as a plain text file, an XML file, an HTML file, a binary file, or some other file format. Playlists may take other forms as well, and may contain other types of content. Each entry in playlist 500 may include an identifier of an audio file and/or a reference to the audio file. Audio files referred to in playlist 500 may be stored in audio database(s) 502.

In addition to the audio files selected by a user, database(s) 502 may include other audio files that contain musical interludes. In generated playlists, zero or more musical interludes may be placed between each pair of audio files. The musical interludes may be short piece of music that may serve as a break between audio files. For instance, when the playlist contains at least some spoken word audio (e.g., news, sports, weather), musical interludes therebetween signal a change of topic to the user. Musical interludes are optional and need not appear in a playlist.

Nonetheless, the referenced audio file 1 in playlist 500 contains a URL that points to the location of the audio file for article 1, while the referenced musical interlude 1 in playlist 500 contains a URL that points to the location of the audio file for musical interlude 1, and so on. Nonetheless, playlists may take other forms, such as sequences of files.

In general, audio database(s) 502 may contains hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands, or even more audio files. Thus, audio database(s) 502 may represent one or more physical devices that store these files. Such physical devices may be located in the same physical location, or may be distributed over a communication network (e.g., the Internet). In some cases, the audio files may be obtained via a third-party file download or streaming service.

Playlist 500 contains references to five audio files that are roughly interleaved with references to four musical interludes. A playlist may contain more or fewer entries, however. Additionally, the patterns of audio files and musical interludes may vary. In some cases, a playlist may predominately contain references to audio files with few references to musical interludes, and in other cases a playlist may predominately contain references to musical interludes with few references to audio files. As noted above, the musical interludes may exist as audio files that are separate from the audio files selected by the user.

FIG. 5B is a message flow diagram 504 depicting an example distribution of a playlist. Message flow diagram 504 includes client device 102, server device 104, and audio database(s) 502. In some embodiments, one or more of server device 104 and audio database(s) 502 may be combined into fewer components or divided into more components. For instance, server device 104 may contain the functionality of audio database(s) 502. Other arrangements are possible.

Client device 102 may include an audio player application that can request playlists, load playlists, parse playlists, and/or request streams of audio files referenced in playlists. In some embodiments, the audio player application may be triggered to begin requesting and streaming the audio files by reception of a playlist.

At step 510, client device 102 may transmit a playlist request to server device 104. Here, it is assumed that server device 104, or some other device, has generated a playlist based on one or more audio files to be streamed to client device 102, or has the ability to generate or otherwise obtain the playlist if the playlist is not immediately available. Thus, at step 512, server device 104 may generate or obtain the playlist. At step 514, server device 104 may transmit a representation of the playlist to client device 102. As was discussed in the context of FIG. 5A, the playlist may include a sequence of references to audio files stored in audio database(s) 502.

At step 516, client device 102 may transmit, to audio database(s) 502, a request for the nth entry of the playlist. For instance, client device 102 may parse the playlist, determine the URL of the nth entry, and request the content at that URL from audio database(s) 502. In response, at step 518, audio database(s) 502 may start transmitting, to client device 102, a stream of the audio file associated with this entry. Then, at step 520, client device 102 may play out the stream.

Notably, client device 102 may receive and buffer a portion of the stream (e.g., 5-10 seconds) before beginning playout of the stream. In this way, if there is jitter in the delivery of subsequent portions of the stream to client device 102, this jitter may be hidden from the user by the buffering of the stream. Client device 102 may seek to maintain such buffering through playout of all audio files.

At step 522, client device 102 may transmit, to audio database(s) 502, a request for the (n+1)th entry of the playlist. Client device 102 may transmit this request while still playing out a portion of the audio file associated with the nth entry. In this manner, client device 102 may be able to transition smoothly from playout of the audio file associated with the nth entry to playout of the audio file associated with the (n+1)th entry. For instance, the audio player application may fade out the end of the audio file associated with the nth entry while fading in the beginning of the audio file associated with the (n+1)th entry.

Regardless, at step 524, audio database(s) 502 may start transmitting, to client device 102, a stream of the audio file associated with the (n+1)th entry. The beginning of this stream may coincide with (e.g., directly follow) the end of the streaming of the audio file associated with the nth entry. Or, the streaming of these two audio files may overlap to some extent. Then, at step 526, client device 102 may play out the stream.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are just example embodiments of playlist generation and audio file streaming. Other embodiments may be used to achieve the same or similar outcomes.

4. Example Operations

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict message flow diagrams in accordance with example embodiments. Message flow diagram 600 of FIG. 6A depicts in-automobile detection by a client device, and subsequent streaming of pre-selected audio files to that client device. The transaction therein involves client device 102, profile server device 602, and one or more audio servers 604.

At step 606, a user may instruct client device 102 to perform one or more “save to automobile” operations. Each such operation triggers client device 102 to save text, links, or other data related to one or more audio files that can be streamed at a later time. For instance, the user might be browsing web sites by way of a web browser. The web browser may have a user interface function (e.g., a button or another type of selector) that acts to store a reference to stream-able audio content on a web site. By activating this function, the reference may be stored locally on client device 102. Other applications, such as media players, email applications, social media applications, and/or games may have similar “save to automobile” abilities.

At step 608, one or more references saved in this fashion may be transmitted to profile server device 602. Profile server device 602 may be a remote server (e.g., a cloud-based server) that has access to a user profile associated with client device 102. Among other things, profile server device 602 may store information related to a user of client device 102, including a list of one or more references to audio files that were generated from use of a “save to automobile” operation.

At step 610, profile server device 602 may generate a playlist including at least some of the one or more references transmitted at step 608. This playlist may include, for instance, an ordering of URLs that reference audio files. In cases where a text-based article is selected at step 606, conversion of the text-based article to an audio file may be requested by client device 102 or profile server device 602. Such a request may involve transmitting the text-based article to a TTS system or recording studio, and receiving the audio file therefrom.

At step 612, which may take place seconds, minutes, hours, or days after step 610, client device 102 may detect that it is in an automobile. This detection may take place in numerous ways. In some examples, client device 102 may be plugged in to (e.g., via a USB cable), or otherwise associated with (e.g., via BLUETOOTH®), an automobile. In some examples, client device 102 may detect that it is within range of a wireless signal associated with an automobile, such as a wireless access point (e.g., Wi-Fi). In these cases, the automobile might identify itself over such an interface, and client device 102 may thereby determine that it is in the automobile and/or the interface may be previously associated with the automobile (e.g., via settings in the client device 102).

Alternatively, client device 102 may make such a determination indirectly. For instance, client device 102 may be equipped with a location determining module, such as a global positioning system (GPS) unit. By taking two or more measurements via this module, client device 102 may be able to estimate a speed at which it is moving. If this speed exceeds a particular speed threshold (e.g., 20-30 miles per hour) for a particular time threshold (e.g., 10-20 seconds or more), client device 102 may determine that it is in an automobile. In some embodiments, this determination may be assisted by map data stored on or accessible to client device 102. This map data may include locations of roads and highways. Then, client device 102 may make a more accurate in-automobile determination by considering whether the speed of client device 102 is sufficiently high, as well as whether client device has been travelling on roads or highways. In this fashion, client device 102 may be able to differentiate between being in an automobile versus being carried by an individual who is walking or riding a bike.

In-automobile detection on a client device may be assisted by an application programming interface (API) that allows applications operating on the client device to query the operating system or a library of the client device as to whether the client device is in an automobile. The operating system or library might carry out any of the actions described above to detect whether the client device is in an automobile and then provide a response to the application. Alternatively, manual setting of client device 102 to an “in-automobile” mode may be possible.

At step 614, which may be performed in response to the in-automobile detection of step 612, client device 102 may request a playlist from profile server device 602. At step 616, profile server device 602 may responsively transmit a copy of the playlist to client device 102. The playlist may contain references to the audio files.

At step 618, client device 102 may transmit a request to audio server(s) 604 for the streaming of the audio files. At step 620, audio server(s) 604 may begin transmitting the stream of one of the requested audio files to client device 102. After receiving at least a portion of this stream, client device 102 may buffer and then audibly play out the stream.

In some embodiments, steps 618 and 620 may include one or more additional sub-steps in accordance with the streaming shown in message flow diagram 504. For instance, client device 102 may sequentially request the stream of multiple audio files from two or more of audio server(s) 604.

The ordering of the steps in FIG. 6A is for purpose of example, and other orderings exist. For instance, step 610 may occur in response to step 614—that is, profile server device 602 may generate a playlist in response to receiving a request for such a playlist. In other embodiments, steps 614 and 616 may take place prior to step 612. In other words, profile server device 602 may generate and transmit the playlist to client device 102 before client device 102 detects that it is in an automobile. In such an embodiment, step 614 might not be necessary, as profile server device 602 may automatically transmit the playlist to client device 102 after the playlist is generated. Further, any of steps 606, 608, 610, 614, and 616 may occur multiple times, with profile server device 602 adding one or more references to the playlist each time.

Additionally, and not shown in FIG. 6A, client device 102 may transmit an indication to profile server device 602 after playing out one or more audio files. This indication may specify the references of one or more audio files that have been played out, so that profile server device 602 can remove these files from the playlist. Alternatively, client device 102 may update its copy of the playlist by removing these references, and transmit the updated playlist to profile server device 602.

Message flow diagram 630 of FIG. 6B depicts in-automobile detection by an automobile and subsequent streaming of pre-selected audio files to an in-automobile audio system. The transaction involves client device 102, automobile 632, profile server device 602, and one or more audio servers 604.

At step 634, a user may instruct client device 102 to perform one or more “save to automobile” operations. These operations may take place as described in the context of step 606.

At step 636, one or more references saved in this fashion may be transmitted to profile server device 602. These operations may take place as described in the context of step 608.

At step 638, profile server device 602 may generate a playlist including at least some of the one or more references transmitted at step 636. These operations may take place as described in the context of step 610. In cases where a text-based article is selected at step 634, conversion of the text-based article to an audio file may be requested by client device 102 or profile server device 602. Such a request may involve transmitting the text-based article to a TTS system or recording studio, and receiving the audio file therefrom.

At step 640, automobile 632 detects that is has been activated (e.g., by turning the ignition switch or powering on or powering up the automobile or in-automobile audio system in some fashion). Possibly in response, at step 642, automobile 632 may request a playlist from profile server device 602. At step 644, profile server device 602 may responsively transmit a copy of the playlist to automobile 632. The playlist may contain references to the audio files. Alternatively, client device 102 may provide the references to the audio files or the playlist directly to automobile 632 (e.g., via USB or BLUETOOTH®), thus eliminating steps involving profile server device 602.

In some cases, automobile 632 may be associated with multiple user profiles (e.g., automobile 632 may have two or more drivers, and each driver may have a respective user profile accessible by profile server device 602). As such, in addition to detecting that it has been activated, automobile 632 may also determine which particular user of the multiple users has activated automobile 632. Such determination could be made on the basis of determining which one of multiple key fobs was used to initiate activation of the automobile 632 (e.g., each one of multiple key fobs may be associated with a respective user); on the basis of an estimated weight of the driver (e.g., separate driver profiles may each be associated with a respective driver weight, and pressure sensor(s) in the driver seat may be used to estimate the weight of the driver and the estimated weight may be associated with a respective user); on the basis of a position of the driver seat (e.g., separate driver profiles may each be associated with a respective driver seat position, and positions corresponding to those position profiles, within some tolerance, may be associated with a respective user); and/or on the basis of the presence of client device 102 within automobile 632 (e.g., different users may be associated with respective client devices, and the presence of a given client device within the car as detected via wireless signals, for example, may be associated with a respective user). In some cases, automobile 632 may provide a prompt to request a user input to select from amongst the multiple user profiles associated with automobile 632 (e.g., via a touch screen interface and/or voice interface). Moreover, indications of such user-distinguishing information may be transmitted to profile server device 602 along with the request for a playlist (step 642), to allow profile server device 602 to determine which user profile to access and send its corresponding playlist back to automobile 632 (step 644).

At step 646, automobile 632 may transmit a request to audio server(s) 604 for the streaming of the audio files. At step 648, audio server(s) 604 may begin transmitting the stream of one of the requested audio files to automobile 632. After receiving at least a portion of this stream, automobile 632 may buffer and then audibly play out the stream.

In some embodiments, steps 646 and 648 may include one or more additional sub-steps in accordance with the streaming shown in message flow diagram 504. For instance, automobile 632 may sequentially request the stream of multiple audio files from two or more of audio server(s) 604.

The ordering of the steps in FIG. 6B is for purpose of example and other orderings exist. For instance, step 638 may occur in response to step 642—that is, profile server device 602 may generate a playlist in response to receiving a request for such a playlist.

5. Example Server Embodiment

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example embodiment. The process illustrated by FIG. 7 may be carried out by a server device, such as server device 104, exemplified by computing device 200 and/or server cluster 304. However, the process can be carried out by other types of devices or device subsystems.

The embodiments of FIG. 7 may be simplified by the removal of any one or more of the features shown therein. Further, these embodiments may be combined with features, aspects, and/or implementations of any of the previous figures or otherwise described herein. Particularly, aspects of these embodiments may be described in more detail in the preceding specification.

A. Receiving an Indication of a Text-Based Article

Step 700 may involve receiving an indication of a text-based article selected by way of a first client device. This selection may indicate that the text-based article has been saved for in-automobile playout, and/or that the text-based article has been flagged for audible playout at a later time. The indication may be a message received over a network.

In some embodiments, the indication may include the text-based article. Alternatively or additionally, the indication may include a URL of the text-based article. In this case, the embodiment of FIG. 7 may also involve retrieving the text-based article from a second server device referenced by the URL.

B. Causing the Text-Based Article to be Converted into an Audio File

Step 702 may involve, possibly based on the indication specifying that the text-based article has been flagged for audible playout at the later time, causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file.

Causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file may involve providing the text-based article to a TTS system and receiving the audio file from the TTS system. Reception of the text-based article by the TTS system may cause the TTS system to convert the text-based article to an audio file.

Alternatively, causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file may involve providing the text-based article to a recording studio for verbal reading (e.g., by a human), and receiving the audio file from the recording studio. The audio file may contain a recording of the verbal reading of the text-based article.

In some embodiments, steps 700 and 702 may be replaced by the first client device receiving an indication that an audio file (or a reference thereto) has been selected for in-automobile playout.

C. Receiving a Request to Stream the Audio File to a Second Client Device

Step 704 may involve receiving a request to stream the audio file to a second client device. The second client device may be associated with the first client device. For instance, the first and second client devices may be configured to share the same user profile and/or account.

In some cases, the second client device is the first client device—in other words, the same client device is used for both content selection and playout of that content. Alternatively, the second client device may be an audio playback system coupled to an automobile. Regardless, reception of the request to stream the audio file to the second client device may occur based on the second client device moving at a speed greater than a non-zero threshold speed.

D. Causing the Audio File to be Streamed to the Second Client Device

Step 706 may involve causing the audio file to be streamed to the second client device. This streaming may occur in accordance with the embodiments of any of FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5B, 6A, and 6B.

Causing the audio file to be streamed to the second client device may involve transmitting, to the second client device, a reference to the audio file. Reception of the reference to the audio file may cause the second client device to: (i) transmit, to a file server, a request for a stream of the audio file, (ii) receiving, from the file server, the stream of the audio file, and (iii) audibly play out the stream of the audio file.

To facilitate user of the file server, causing the text-based article to be converted into the audio file may also involve causing the audio file to be stored on the file server. In some cases, a profile server device, such as profile server device 602, may be the file server.

6. Example Client Embodiment

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating an example embodiment. The process illustrated by FIG. 8 may be carried out by a client device, such as client device 102, exemplified by computing device 200. However, the process can be carried out by other types of devices or device subsystems.

The embodiments of FIG. 8 may be simplified by the removal of any one or more of the features shown therein. Further, these embodiments may be combined with features, aspects, and/or implementations of any of the previous figures or otherwise described herein. Particularly, aspects of these embodiments may be described in more detail in the preceding specification.

A. Displaying a Text-Based Article on a User Interface of a Client Device

Step 800 may involve displaying a text-based article on a user interface of a client device, where the user interface includes a save-to-audio option. In some cases, the save-to-audio option may be a save-to-automobile option. Activation of the save-to-audio option may store the text-based article or a reference thereto as media for later playout.

B. Determining that the Save-to-Audio Option has been Activated

Step 802 may involve determining that the save-to-audio option has been activated for the text-based article. In some embodiments, determining that the save-to-audio option has been activated for the text-based article may involve receiving an indication by way of an input mechanism of the client device that the save-to-audio option has been activated. This may include an activation of a user interface component, such as a button.

C. Causing the Text-Based Article to be Converted into an Audio File

Step 804 may involve, possibly based on the save-to-audio option being activated for the text-based article, causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file.

Causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file may involve providing the text-based article to a TTS system and receiving the audio file from the TTS system. Reception of the text-based article by the TTS system may cause the TTS system to convert the text-based article to an audio file.

Alternatively, causing the text-based article to be converted into an audio file may involve (i) determining that the client device is associated with a premium service, (ii) possibly based on the client device being associated with the premium service, providing the text-based article to a recording studio for verbal reading, and (iii) receiving the audio file from the recording studio. The audio file may contain a recording of the verbal reading of the text-based article.

In some embodiments, the client device may communicate directly with the TTS system or recording studio. In other embodiments, the client device may transmit the text-based article to a server device (e.g., profile server device 602 or some other server device), and the server device may communicate with the TTS system or recording studio. The server device may store a copy of the audio file, perhaps including the audio file in a playlist.

D. Determining that the Client Device is in a Hands-Free Listening Mode

Step 806 may involve determining that the client device is in a hands-free listening mode. Determining that the client device is in the hands-free listening mode may involve determining that the client device is moving at a speed greater than a non-zero threshold speed. Alternatively or additionally, determining that the client device is in the hands-free listening mode may involve determining that the client device is in an automobile. In other examples, the hands-free listening mode may be automatically or manually activated when the user of the client device is walking, jogging, exercising, doing yardwork, riding a bus or train, etc.

This in-automobile detection may take place in numerous ways. In some examples, the client device may be plugged in to (e.g., via a USB cable), or otherwise associated with (e.g., via BLUETOOTH®), an automobile. In some examples, client device 102 may detect that it is within range of a wireless signal associated with an automobile, such as a wireless access point (e.g., Wi-Fi). In these cases, the automobile might identify itself over such an interface, and the client device may thereby determine that it is in the automobile and/or the interface may be previously associated with the automobile (e.g., via settings in the client device 102).

Alternatively, the client device may make such a determination indirectly. For instance, the client device may be equipped with a location determining module, such as a global positioning system (GPS) unit. By taking two or more measurements via this module, the client device may be able to estimate a speed at which it is moving. If this speed exceeds a particular speed threshold (e.g., 20-30 miles per hour) for a particular time threshold (e.g., 10-20 seconds or more), the client device may determine that it is in an automobile. In some embodiments, this determination may be assisted by map data stored on or accessible to the client device. This map data may include locations of roads and highways. Then, the client device may make a more accurate in-automobile determination by considering whether the speed of the client device is sufficiently high, as well as whether client device has been travelling on roads or highways. In this fashion, the client device may be able to differentiate between being in an automobile versus being carried by an individual who is walking or riding a bike.

In-automobile detection on a client device may be assisted by an application programming interface (API) that allows applications operating on the client device to query the operating system or a library of the client device as to whether the client device is in an automobile. The operating system or library might carry out any of the actions described above to detect whether the client device is in an automobile and then provide a response to the application. Alternatively, manual setting of the client device to an “in-automobile” mode may be possible

E. Playing Out the Audio File

Step 808 may involve, possibly based on the client device being in the hands-free listening mode, playing out the audio file. In some embodiments, playing out the audio file may involve the client device requesting and receiving a playlist from a server device, where the playlist includes a reference to the audio file. The client device may also request and receive a stream of the audio file. This streaming may occur in accordance with the embodiments of any of FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5B, 6A, and 6B.

7. Conclusion

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The above detailed description describes various features and functions of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods with reference to the accompanying figures. The example embodiments described herein and in the figures are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments can be utilized, and other changes can be made, without departing from the scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

With respect to any or all of the message flow diagrams, scenarios, and flow charts in the figures and as discussed herein, each step, block, and/or communication can represent a processing of information and/or a transmission of information in accordance with example embodiments. Alternative embodiments are included within the scope of these example embodiments. In these alternative embodiments, for example, functions described as steps, blocks, transmissions, communications, requests, responses, and/or messages can be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrent or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. Further, more or fewer blocks and/or functions can be used with any of the ladder diagrams, scenarios, and flow charts discussed herein, and these ladder diagrams, scenarios, and flow charts can be combined with one another, in part or in whole.

A step or block that represents a processing of information can correspond to circuitry that can be configured to perform the specific logical functions of a herein-described method or technique. Alternatively or additionally, a step or block that represents a processing of information can correspond to a module, a segment, or a portion of program code (including related data). The program code can include one or more instructions executable by a processor for implementing specific logical functions or actions in the method or technique. The program code and/or related data can be stored on any type of computer readable medium such as a storage device including a disk, hard drive, or other storage medium.

The computer readable medium can also include non-transitory computer readable media such as computer-readable media that store data for short periods of time like register memory, processor cache, and random access memory (RAM). The computer readable media can also include non-transitory computer readable media that store program code and/or data for longer periods of time. Thus, the computer readable media may include secondary or persistent long term storage, like read only memory (ROM), optical or magnetic disks, compact-disc read only memory (CD-ROM), for example. The computer readable media can also be any other volatile or non-volatile storage systems. A computer readable medium can be considered a computer readable storage medium, for example, or a tangible storage device.

Moreover, a step or block that represents one or more information transmissions can correspond to information transmissions between software and/or hardware modules in the same physical device. However, other information transmissions can be between software modules and/or hardware modules in different physical devices.

The particular arrangements shown in the figures should not be viewed as limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments can include more or less of each element shown in a given figure. Further, some of the illustrated elements can be combined or omitted. Yet further, an example embodiment can include elements that are not illustrated in the figures.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purpose of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method comprising: determining that a vehicle is activated or in motion; in response to determining that the vehicle is activated or in motion, requesting and receiving, by way of a communication interface, a playlist that contains references to audio files; in response to receiving the playlist, requesting and receiving, by way of the communication interface, a stream of one or more of the audio files; and playing, by way of a speaker, the stream of the one or more of the audio files.
 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining that the vehicle is activated comprises determining that an ignition switch of the vehicle has been activated.
 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining that the vehicle is activated comprises determining that the vehicle has been powered on.
 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein determining that the vehicle is activated comprises determining that an in-automobile audio system of the vehicle has been powered on.
 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising: determining user-distinguishing information of a user of the vehicle, wherein the user-distinguishing information is provided when requesting the playlist.
 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the user-distinguishing information is based on a key fob that was used to initiate activation of the vehicle.
 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the user-distinguishing information is based on an estimated weight of a driver of the vehicle gathered from one or more pressure sensors in a driver seat of the vehicle.
 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the user-distinguishing information is based on a position of a driver seat of the vehicle.
 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the user-distinguishing information is based on presence of client device within the vehicle.
 10. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the user-distinguishing information is based on input received by way of a touch screen or voice interface that identifies the user.
 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein a client device is equipped with a location determining module, and wherein determining that the vehicle is in motion comprises: receiving two or more measurements taken by the location determining module; determining an estimated speed at which the vehicle is moving; and determining that the estimated speed has exceeded a particular speed threshold for a particular time threshold.
 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, wherein the client device has access to map data, and wherein determining that the vehicle is in motion further comprises determining that the estimated speed has exceeded the particular speed threshold for the particular time threshold while the vehicle has been travelling on roads or highways.
 13. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the one or more of the audio files were selected for the playlist by use of a save-to-automobile option.
 14. An article of manufacture including a non-transitory computer-readable medium, having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising: determining that a vehicle is activated or in motion; in response to determining that the vehicle is activated or in motion, requesting and receiving, by way of a communication interface, a playlist that contains references to audio files; in response to receiving the playlist, requesting and receiving, by way of the communication interface, a stream of one or more of the audio files; and playing, by way of a speaker, the stream of the one or more of the audio files.
 15. The article of manufacture of claim 14, wherein determining that the vehicle is activated comprises determining that an ignition switch of the vehicle has been activated.
 16. The article of manufacture of claim 14, wherein determining that the vehicle is activated comprises determining that an in-automobile audio system of the vehicle has been powered on.
 17. The article of manufacture of claim 14, the operations further comprising: determining user-distinguishing information of a user of the vehicle, wherein the user-distinguishing information is provided when requesting the playlist.
 18. The article of manufacture of claim 14, wherein a client device is equipped with a location determining module, and wherein determining that the vehicle is in motion comprises: receiving two or more measurements taken by the location determining module; determining an estimated speed at which the vehicle is moving; and determining that the estimated speed has exceeded a particular speed threshold for a particular time threshold.
 19. The article of manufacture of claim 18, wherein the client device has access to map data, and wherein determining that the vehicle is in motion further comprises determining that the estimated speed has exceeded the particular speed threshold for the particular time threshold while the vehicle has been travelling on roads or highways.
 20. The article of manufacture of claim 14, wherein the one or more of the audio files were selected for the playlist by use of a save-to-automobile option. 